Homelessness – if you have recently left prison

This page gives specific advice for people who have recently left prison and are homeless, or worried about becoming homeless.

• The code of guidance has a specific chapter which advises councils how to deal with homeless applications from people with an offending history.
• We will consider the views of probation services, youth offending teams or the like when assessing what housing you need and what support you might need to find and keep somewhere to live
• You can apply to any council for help but it’s usually best to apply to an area where you have a local connection, otherwise you will likely be referred to a safe area where you do have a local connection. Being in prison in an area doesn’t count as a local connection.
• As well as the usual factors we must consider when deciding whether you are entitled to temporary accommodation whilst your application is being assessed, we must also consider whether you are vulnerable as a result of your time spent in prison

The Housing Needs Advice and Support team offer advice and support if you are homeless or worried about becoming homeless:

• Open Monday to Thursday, 9am – 5pm and Friday 9am – 4pm (no appointment needed for initial advice)
• Civic Offices, Guildhall Square, Portsmouth, PO1 2AX
• 023 9283 4989 – housing.options@portsmouthcc.gov.uk

A very limited service is available outside of these hours for crisis situations only on 023 9282 4244.

For more advice and guidance around homelessness, read the if you are homeless, or worried about becoming homeless page.